Red Carpet Lewks and Lol’s from and undercover Fashion Critic.
Last Wednesday night, the Gardiner Hotel in Malvern transformed into a veritable runway as Melbourne’s fashion elite gathered for the official launch of ‘The Fashion Critical’, a book that promises to be as delightfully irreverent as its author. With a dress code that demanded “excessive red glamour,” attendees took this directive to heart, showcasing outfits that would make even the most seasoned fashionista do a double take.
Hosted by none other than Melissa Singer, the esteemed fashion journalist from the Sydney Morning Herald, the evening was a whirlwind of wit, style, and, of course, critiques. The night’s standout was the ever-quirky Julia Morris, who arrived donning an eccentric headpiece that the Fashion Critical herself compared to Whitney Houston’s iconic “Queen of the Night” headpiece from ‘The Bodyguard’. But Julia, in her inimitable style, had added a dinner fork to the side; because why not? If you’re going to be a head-turner, you might as well be practical, too!
Though the Fashion Critical has chosen to remain incognito, adding an air of mystery to her sharp-tongued observations; her influence is undeniable. She first gained notoriety back in 2011 when she began critiquing the Oscars on Facebook, turning everyday fashion commentary into an art form. After all, who among us hasn’t found ourselves revelling in the joy of people-watching, sharing a giggle, or expressing a concern over someone’s sartorial choices?
One of her signature phrases, “Fraggle Apocalypse,” highlights her humorous take on the feather trend that has emerged in the wake of real fur’s decline. And let’s not overlook her term “supersize me dress,” which she describes as the “hostile takeover” of the red carpet. It’s all in good fun, of course, and that’s precisely why we adore her.
The book launch itself was a celebration of everything fabulous and ridiculous about the world of fashion. Guests strutted their stuff, and the Fashion Critical’s keen eye didn’t miss a beat. Brodie Ryan shimmered in a gown that had the audacity to be compared to an Oscar, high praise indeed! Joel Creasey, Khanh Ong, and Elise McCann were in attendance, along with fashion luminaries like Joe Halabi and Alin Le’ Kal, all ready to be part of a night steeped in style.
Among the many laugh-out-loud moments in this book and my favourite section, aptly titled “Barely There.” This chapter dives into the curious rise of the naked dress phenomenon, where it seems the trend is to show as little as possible, who needs actual clothes when you can flaunt your rear end and get away with it, right? It’s a tongue-in-cheek commentary on the absurdity of modern fashion that left me chuckling and perhaps questioning my own wardrobe choices.
In short, the launch of ‘The Fashion Critical’ book was a night to remember, filled with laughter, style, and a touch of mayhem. As guests left the Gardiner Hotel, one thing was clear: Melbourne’s fashion scene just got a whole lot more entertaining, thanks to the unapologetic wit of the Fashion Critical. Whether you’re a lover of fashion or just someone who enjoys a good laugh, her book is sure to be a must-read.
By Melinda Sullivan
Photography by Carly Ravenhall
